ELIZABETH BEAVERS

“Why are you calling that do ? It sounds like ‘ fa ?’” I turned away from the board and met the knitted eyebrows of the second grader who had asked the question. Many other young musicians also looked confused, their heads innocently cocked to the side. The student likely had perfect pitch - and was right. They were used to calling that pitch “fa” outside of school. I replied, somewhat inadequately, “ Do  can move. Whatever we call do  becomes home base, and in this piece, th

The Word of the Year is Trust Each new school year brings promise and possibility. To make the most of this fresh start, I like to set an intention - one word to guide me through the year. It helps me stay centered and prioritize the wellbeing of my community. Two years ago, the word was compassion.  Last year, cultivation.  This year, the word is trust. Trust is about the surrender of control. It’s an invitation to share responsibility. It depends on relationships and respec